Here's a knotty question for you, one that I know is much discussed by authors. Should history get in the way of a good story?
Speaking for myself, absolutely not! But on the other hand, it should abolutely be there - or it is hardly a historical novel! - and in skilfull hands, the historical detail fascinates. As a writer, obsessed with one's own subject, it can be difficult to judge just when detail of events or objects is "getting in the way". But as a reader, how much history do you like with your romance?
How accurate should a historical romance be in its detail? I know many writers who go to extraordinary lengths to ensure their history is accurate and their story authentic, and I'm sure this shines through. But do you know or care if someone wears the wrong kind of dress and or rides from London to the Scottish Highlands in one day? Or do you find a deviation from the customs or other detail of the time, draws you out of the story so much that you can't enjoy it?
Curious minds want to know :)
Marie
I like to learn some history with books I read, but really the story is the most important. I pretty much skip over the dress descriptions (not very fashion minded) but do love descriptions of buildings and scenery. If something really intriques me, I will look it up on the internet, or read the author's notes if they are available. I know some authors who really go the extra mile to ensure the info is accurate, Monica McCarty is one such example. She has researched Scottish history alot and always includes notes at the end of the book. I will generally read these but only because I have always liked learning about history anyway.
ReplyDeleteI like historical accuracy, or at least an acknowlegement from the author that they're aware when they've introduced an inaccuracy into the story.
ReplyDeleteJohn Drake's good at that with his Flint and Silver series: he'll mention in the author's notes if he's introduced an item before its first recorded use (because after all, some ideas could have occurred to more than one person around the same time).
Thanks for your comments, June and Stevie - they're good to hear :). I think it's good if a fiction book inspires you to do your own research. And I'm perfectly happy to stretch points that can't be disproved :)
ReplyDeleteMarie
Hi,
ReplyDeleteI'm not much of a history buff, but I do like some historical accuracy in my stories. It must not be a glaring mistake...like serfs being able to read modern English...and yes, I did read a book that had that in there as the heroine went back in time....but otherwise, I'm not too fussy.
Valerie
in Germany
If the book purports to be historical then it should strive to be acurate. I can accept an author being creative but not purposely innacurate. I an author is writing something a little fantastic, then they can take make leaway.
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